Micheál Martin (Cork South Central, Fianna Fail)

It seems to have become a consistent pattern of the past year that the Taoiseach tends to group questions on Northern Ireland with entirely unrelated questions. For example, I suggest that questions on the investigation into the murder of Pat Finucane should not be grouped for reply with questions about United Kingdom policies on the stability treaty. Even though parties in this House are committed to the holding of an inquiry into the murder of Pat Finucane, there does not seem to be any movement whatsoever on the part of the Prime Minister, Mr. Cameron.

The Taoiseach in his reply stated there was a difference of opinion between our Government and the British Government. I would suggest it is not a matter of opinion but rather a matter of an international agreement solemnly signed and agreed to by both Governments. Will the Taoiseach agree that no one government has the right to unilaterally resile from an international agreement of that kind and that to do so is a serious matter?

How does the Taoiseach propose to resolve the stalemate separate from judicial reviews as this is an international agreement which both sides signed? Does he envisage any movement on the implementation of that agreement and of people honouring their word?

As regards European matters, the position of the British Government has been to oppose important reforms. It is argued it has moved from an old policy of opting out which characterised the approach of successive British Governments to European issues, towards a policy which is attempting to block issues. I do not believe Europe can work if this sort of approach is maintained. Did the Taoiseach address this issue with the British Prime Minister as regards the evolution of European policy and the role of the British Government, its contribution to the evolution of that policy and the best approach to be adopted?

The UK Independence Party has been attempting again to interfere in Ireland's affairs in its support of the "No" side, as is to be expected. The party also circulated leaflets to every house in the country during the second Lisbon treaty campaign. On this occasion the party has been claiming that a financial transaction tax will be imposed on us. I ask for the Taoiseach's views. The factual position, as I understand, is that there is still a significant and resolute bloc in the Union which is opposed to a financial transaction tax and I would appreciate if the Taoiseach could confirm this.

The Taoiseach referred in his reply to a brief discussion with the British Prime Minister and I am anxious to hear the views of the British Prime Minister on his Government's position on the financial transaction tax.

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